Nimrat Kaur in a chintz-inspired sari is a love letter to India’s floral textile heritage

Nimrat Kaur’s sari billowed, layered chiffon and organza catching the air in soft ruffles as she crossed the room. Ridhi Mehra’s chintz-inspired print lent the ivory base a centuries-old story, while a beadwork-trimmed blouse and sheer sleeves brought it firmly into the present.

The hand-embroidered raw-silk bodice was edged with ornate gold lace, its metallic thread kept minimal to let the florals lead. Full sheer georgette sleeves softened the structure, while the pre-draped folds of the sari traced ruffled edges along the hem. The pallu fell into a loose cascade at the back, and the lower half followed a mermaid-style drape that skimmed the hips before flaring past the knees. The interplay of sheer and opaque, structured and flowing, reflected the dichotomy of the look itself: a traditional outfit with a contemporary silhouette.

The ivory base carried delicate printed florals in the style of chintz, a printed cotton textile that emerged in India centuries ago, celebrated for its intricate botanical motifs on pale grounds. Handwoven and block-printed by artisans, chintz once travelled across continents, coveted in Europe for its vivid dyes and fine weave. Even trade bans and foreign imitations couldn’t blunt its allure; a testament not just to its beauty but to the lasting cultural pull of florals in Indian textile design.

Nimrat Kaur wore jewellery, from Shri Paramani Jewels, including emerald drop earrings set with graduating stones encircled by diamonds, and bold multi-stone rings worn across both hands. Hair was parted to the side in loose waves, with warm, tonal makeup—peach lids, cheeks and lips–for a soft, cohesive finish.

From Vogue’s fashion desk:

“Belt it. A slender metallic cinch will pull those ruffles into line and give the waist its moment. Trade the emerald chandeliers for pearl studs and let the print set the pace,” says Vogue India fashion associate Manglien Gangte.

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Khushi Kapoor chose a striped beaded gown by Gaurav Gupta with a subtle fishtail flare

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